English Literature
iGCSE English Literature is a subject that often students feel they cannot 'revise' for, however, using the tips and resources below consistently, you will be able to prepare yourself in the best possible way ahead of your summer exams.
iGCSE English Literature Course Specification:
It is important to understand the formats, methods, and requirements for your IGCSE English Literature assessment to help you prepare in a targeted way. At BISAD, the examination board for English Literature is Pearson Edexcel iGCSE (9-1) and the specification is attached below:
iGCSE English Literature Exam Format:
In addition to the two pieces of coursework you have submitted for your English Literature component, you will also sit one examination at the end of Year 11. This exam paper is 2 hours long and will assess you on your reading skills. The breakdown below summarises what is assessed in both sections of the paper:
|
Paper 1 |
Time |
What is assessed? |
|
Section A – Unseen Poetry |
35 minutes |
Students will be required to answer an essay question on one unseen poem. This is for a total of 20 marks. |
|
Section B – Anthology Poetry |
40 minutes |
Students are offered two questions from the anthology poems studied but are only required to answer one. This is for a total of 30 marks. |
|
Section C - Modern Prose |
45 minutes |
Students are offered two questions from the modern novel, Of Mice and Men. Students are required to answer one question. This is for a total of 40 marks. |
IGCSE Interleaved and Spaced Revision Timetable
Top Tips for iGCSE English Revision and Preparation:
If you are consistent with implementing the tips below until your summer exams, you will be successful in reaching your targets. Suggestions for wider reading and links to past papers can be found in the sections below.
iGCSE English Literature Past Papers:
Past exam papers provide invaluable insights to the type of questions you'll encounter, which will help you prepare more effectively. Once you have a thorough understanding of each of your anthology texts, practise with as many past papers in timed conditions. Past papers for Literature Paper 1 can be accessed here: Edexcel International GCSE English Literature | Pearson qualifications
iGCSE English Literature Resources for Revision:
Read one short story a week here: 13 Short Stories From Classic Novelists You Can Read Over Lunch or here: Englishlibrary.org
Read and analyse one unseen poem a week here: Poem of the Day | The Poetry Foundation
For a question-by-question breakdown on Literature paper 1, use the guidance on this website: Edexcel IGCSE English Literature Revision Notes [Latest Syllabus]
Watch Mrs Rumsey videos for further analysis on the anthology poetry and Of Mice and Men:
Finally, please remember to keep dropping in to see your English teachers - we want to see you and we want to help!
Last updated on 20/01/2025
Last updated by
Amy Coote